People everywhere are burrowing through massive heaps of dust and dirt in their rusty old shed out back hoping to uncover a piece of the latest craze in extreme sports. Construction workers worldwide are finding a new since of appreciation for their most trusty piece of equipment. What’s the craze that has left everyone in a mad dash to the curbs? A dependable, one-wheeled, piece of metal; the wheelbarrow. Originally started when Englishman Jude Sharpe ran over a brick at a building site in Wales and popped into the air, wheelbarrow freestyle is making its way into the world of extreme sports.

Creator Jude Sharpe grew up as a child always seeking new adventures, trying such extreme activities as barn swinging, bridge jumping, and BMX. Jude’s hunger for adventure never ceased, even when at work, the building site that gave birth to the new trend.

For those who dare to try, wheelbarrow freestyle incorporates a few basic moves; the pop jump, grinding, and fly through with suck back. Each requires proper control of the one-wheeled piece of equipment at all times, but with the right amount of practice anyone can transform their rocky ride into a smooth effortless adventure. When working on different terrains, Jude offers up two different types of wheelbarrows. For rough street terrains he recommends a Fort Cosmo, while for flat land he suggest the Chillington Campden. Jude also adds golf balls to the end of the handles for better grip and added customization. Each barrow has an average life expectancy of six months, which means that this is one extreme sport that won’t leave a hefty dent in your pocket. Whichever wheelbarrow you choose, the key is to put on your rough exterior and dare to push the ordinary to the extreme.

Since the recent arrival of the sport first popped up, it has led Jude to a few television appearances and summer fetes. It also has been seen at the 2000 Urban Games in London, festivals, and nightclub openings. Its eye-catching appeal leaves onlookers halting in their tracks worldwide. Jude has received a handful of followers from all different parts of the world who hope to jump-start the extreme sport in their hometown.

Wheelbarrow freestyle is definitely a rising sport for the truly extreme at heart that have a vision to see past objects original intentions and use them to create added excitement in their life. Some of the world’s most favorite pastimes all began by someone willing to stretch the boundaries. After all, I’m sure putting wheels on a surfboard seemed rather odd at first glance, but it is now a passion that has swept the nation. So what does the future hold for this new trend? Only time will tell. Until then, don’t be surprised if you drive by a building site and see construction workers everywhere trading in their trusty yellow hard hats for more time with their one-wheeled adventure.

Read some other takes on Freestyle Wheelbarrowing at:

The Junkyard Sports blog
Steal Life